JACK Steff has set his sights on another national title – but he has to negotiate a tricky North West section first.

The middleweight class in the NW Elite Senior Championships is the strongest it has been in a number of years – underlined by the fact that Steff had to beat last year’s finalist Jake Haigh just to reach the semi finals.

However, on this form, the Roche Boxing Club fighter could we add to his clutch of national titles.

“I’ve never know this division to be so strong,” said coach Brian Roche. “It is like a throw back to the 1970s.

“There are 13 top class fighters in Jack’s division alone and that is just in the North West.

“So to get through to the national finals would be a great achievement.”

Next up for the Rossendale fighter is a semi final showdown with hot prospect Brian Rennie of Bury – a stable-mate of Amir Khan.

He has also trained at Ricky Hatton’s gym.

The contest promises to be the fight of the night when the semi finals takes place at Walkden Sixth Form College, Walkeden on Saturday.

Jack, who has attracted the attentions of a number of promotors, won a national schoolboy and two junior titles.

He has also represented England four times.

n Roche Boxing Club will be holding a show at Byerdon House, Colne Road, Burnley on Friday, May 2. Tickets are priced £10 and for more details contact Brian Roche on 07749 903771.